If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then you might want to consider looking into a sling. Slings allow you to wear your child, keeping them happy, while you accomplish all that you need to get done. More importantly, the medical profession has identified at least four distinctions between sling babies and their unslinged counterparts ...

Fewer fears, fewer tears

In 1986 a study by a team of pediatricians in Montreal concluded that babies who are carried in slings cry at least 40 percent less than those who are unslinged. And the anecdotal evidence is overwhelming: In cultures where baby slings are the norm, crying is measured in minutes, not hours, with colicky or fussy babies being incredibly rare.

In pockets, brains rocket

Researchers have reported that babies in slings show enhanced visual and auditory alertness, and a much quicker absorption of information. In other words, just by letting your baby travel close to you and take in all the sights and sounds you do, you could actually make a better learner out of him! In addition, the closeness of slinging makes normal ambient noises or images less scary, and therefore more likely to be learning tools. The brains of sling babies form more neural connections, and form them faster—the hallmarks of a smarter baby.

Sensible sling, sensible world

Remember, gestation ... what we commonly call the womb ... is in fact an eighteen-month experience, with half that journey being spent in the new outside world. Because the sling carry so closely mimics the feeling of being inside mom’s belly, baby immediately begins connecting past and present dots. Sling babies have been shown to be more organized, aware, and even more tuned in to adult interaction than other infants.

Babyworn, baby warmed

The speed of socialization, or learning to interact as other people do, is never greater than when baby is snuggling close to you or your spouse, taking in the sounds, smells, and voice inflections of those close to him. There is ample evidence to show that sling babies are socialized more quickly and more effectively than their penned-up mates. Think of the sling as a warmer or an incubator for future relational connections—such as the friendships your baby will one day have to form as a wide-eyed preschooler!




In conjunction with the Polkadot Papoose, we are giving away a sling to one lucky reader ... winner's choice. To enter, leave a comment on this post telling us about your babywearing experiences, or lack thereof. Don't forget to include your name and email address so we are able to contact you if you win ... and don't worry, you don't have to be a blogger to win (just click "anonymous" and leave your contact info in your comment). Contest ends Friday, February 1st, 2008, at midnight PST. Good luck!

Click here to browse our Polkadot Papoose collection ...

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How many times have you tried to cover your child with a blanket while they are in their stroller ... only to find the blanket dragging under the wheels shortly thereafter? The All-Weather Woobee Blanket is the answer to your problem (hence one of the greatest inventions ever).

What makes the All-Weather Woobee Blanket so unique? A water resistant nylon backing that has a DWR (durable weather resistant) coating acts as a protective barrier for your child, while the cozy soft fabric creates a wonderful surface to lie on or snuggle. The innovative tie design allows the Woobee blankets to be attached to strollers, front packs, infant car seats, or anything else you can imagine. Contrast stitch, custom striped grosgrain ribbon ties, and beautiful color combinations allow parents to have a Woobee blanket that fits their personal sense of style.